Colorectal Cancer Advocacy

$525
of $500 goal

In June 2010 my husband, at age 37, was diagnosed with Colon Cancer. Six months later, following genetic testing, it was determined that he also has Lynch Syndrome. A person with Lynch Syndrome has up to an 80% risk of colon cancer, often at a young age. Our two young kids both have a 50% chance of having inherited Lynch. In the last year or so I have advocated to bring more awareness to both Lynch Syndrome and the importance of screening for colon cancer.

In March am returning to Washington DC. This time with the Colon Cancer Alliance and Fight Colorectal
Cancer to "Call on Congress" about early intervention and screening for
colorectal cancer, quality treatment options for patients and funding
for research.

For this event I will have two days of advocacy
training before spending the third day on the "Hill" visiting the
offices of my representatives and senators. At the end of the third day
is a celebration/awards dinner and ceremony.

Financial contributions will help to offset various travel expenses associated with my advocacy work. These trips are important so I can bring information back to my home town and share with those in my social media circles.

On March 15 I will travel, once again, to Washington DC to Call-on Congress. Thanks to "Fight Colorectal Cancer" I will attend informational discussions about prevention, genetics and treatment, health care reform, legislative priorities, research funding, and screening.

Following our trainings I will speak with Wisconsin state Representatives to bring more awareness to this preventable, treatable and beatable disease.

Although I have graciously been awarded a scholarship for my airfare and hotel expenses, there are incidental costs such as some transportation in DC, meals and networking opportunities with other Colorectal Cancer organizations.

Any funds raised above and beyond what is needed for my own costs of the trip will be donated to Fight Colorectal Cancer.

March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness month. I have blue ribbon star magnets available for $5 each to show your support in a tangible way. If you donate through my GoFundMe page, just add a note that you would also like a magnet and I will send it to you.

During my last couple of advocacy trips, I have met amazing cancer survivors. A couple of my new friends are also hoping to attend Call on Congress in March, but also need financial help to get there. I am using my page to not only raise money for my own expenses, but to share what I raise with them. Their voices NEED to be heard too.